The opportunity to see rare breeds including the Irish
Red and White Setter (lesser known than its solid-red cousin, the
Irish Setter) and Sealyham Terrier (named after Sealyham House in
Wales)

More than 200 breeds on display including many family
favourites such as the Whippet, Golden Retriever, Cavalier King
Charles Spaniel and Irish Setter

Dogs competing for a spot at the world famous Crufts
dog show, to be held next March in Birmingham

Public can bring their own 'spectator dogs' on the day
(these cannot compete in the show)

Almost 8,000 dogs from over 200 breeds will be descending on
Three Shires Field in Bannerdown, Bath from 27th- 30th May for the
popular Bath Canine Society Championship Show - the largest dog
show in Somerset and among the largest events of its kind in the
UK.

The show, established over 130 years ago, will see dogs and
their owners from all over the British Isles and beyond compete in
a bid to qualify for the world's biggest dog show, Crufts, which
will be held at the NEC in Birmingham next March.

The pedigree dogs taking part will be judged on a number of
factors in the ring, including temperament and that they are fit,
healthy and happy dogs that are good examples of their breed, as
they compete for the ultimate 'Best in Show' prize.

The show is one of the largest gatherings of dogs in the UK and
will see rare native British and Irish breeds competing, such as
the Sealyham Terrier originating from Wales (10 of this breed on
show), the Deerhound from Scotland (46), the Norwich Terrier from
England (12) and the Irish Red and White Setter from Ireland
(16).

These breeds are bred in such small numbers today that they are
considered by the Kennel Club to be at risk of disappearing from
the UK's streets and parks. Alongside these breeds will be
some of the more well-known ones such as the Whippet (235 of this
breed on show), Irish Setter (196), Golden Retriever (182) and
Cavalier King Charles Spaniel (170).

The show is perfect for families researching the right breed of
dog for them, and visitors will be able to meet the dogs themselves
as well as talk to experts in each breed about finding a good
breeder, what to expect from the breed, and training and care
requirements.

Ben Ford, secretary of the show, said: "We are very proud that
our event is the largest dog show in Somerset and among the largest
in the UK. It brings thousands of dog lovers to the area each
year and we are expecting this year's show to be bigger and better
than ever.

"The show is a huge celebration of man's best friend and
visitors will get to meet lots of wonderful dogs throughout the
weekend, find out more about dog showing and the various activities
they can get involved in with their own dog, and browse the doggy
wares on the trade stands.

"Anyone thinking about getting a pedigree dog can come along and
research their favourite breeds, as well as some of the lesser
known breeds they may not even have heard of, and take the
opportunity to meet the dogs themselves, which is definitely a
favourite with families."

Competition classes are held across the seven pedigree dog
groups. Friday 27thMay will see the Toy and Terrier breeds
competing, followed by the Gundog breeds on Saturday 28th, the
Working and Pastoral breeds on Sunday 29thand the Utility and Hound
breeds on Monday 30th. Monday also sees the climax of the
competition - Best in Show - followed by Best Puppy in Show.

The show is one of 37 Group and General Championship Dog Shows
licensed by the Kennel Club throughout the year, which enable dogs
to qualify for next year's Crufts.

Entry to the show is free and car parking costs
£5. Visitors to the show can bring 'spectator dogs' for a fee
of £5, but they must fill out a Kennel Club form on arrival and
agree to keep their dog under control at all times.